Keeping Youth Away From Drugs a Major Challenge, Says Additional SP Himmat Jadhav

Keeping Youth Away From Drugs a Major Challenge, Says Additional SP Himmat Jadhav
Additional SP Himmat Jadhav said keeping youth away from drugs and controlling the supply of synthetic and semi-synthetic substances are major challenges.
Pune, October 3, 2026: Keeping young people away from drug abuse and preventing the supply of narcotic substances have emerged as major challenges, particularly as synthetic and semi-synthetic drugs become increasingly accessible, said Additional Superintendent of Police (Anti-Narcotics Task Force) Himmat Jadhav in Pune.
Jadhav was speaking at the PSP-ASIS Connect Conclave, organised jointly by Pune Security Professionals (PSP) and ASIS International, Pune Chapter. The event focused on strengthening security cooperation and creating a safer, drug-free Pune.
Synthetic Drugs Raise Concern
According to Jadhav, drug trafficking and consumption have increased, while different forms of synthetic and semi-synthetic substances are becoming more accessible.
He identified the 15–35 age group as particularly vulnerable and stressed the need for coordinated efforts involving families, teachers, friends, communities and law-enforcement agencies.
Jadhav said that preventing young people from developing drug dependencies requires intervention beyond policing, with awareness and guidance playing an important role.
Police and Community Cooperation Needed
The Additional SP also highlighted the difficulty of controlling drug-supply networks and called for greater participation from the security-management sector.
He said corporate security teams, educational institutions, families and community organisations can contribute to identifying risks and supporting preventive efforts.
The Maharashtra Anti-Narcotics Task Force was established in 2024, and authorities have undertaken initiatives under campaigns including Say No to Drugs and Drug-Free Maharashtra.
Role of Schools and Families
Jadhav stressed that parents, teachers and friends have an important role in guiding young people and identifying potential risks at an early stage.
The focus, he said, should not only be on action against drug suppliers but also on preventing young people from being drawn into substance abuse in the first place.
Security Sector Discusses Wider Threats
The PSP-ASIS conclave brought together security professionals, corporate representatives, technology and security-equipment providers, police and fire-service personnel.
PSP founder Mangesh Kate said stronger public-private partnerships could help security professionals and law-enforcement agencies identify vulnerabilities and respond to emerging threats.
The event also included recognition of firefighters and emergency personnel for their life-saving and emergency-response efforts.
The discussion comes amid continuing drug-enforcement operations in Pune, with police agencies conducting seizures and arrests in separate cases involving narcotic substances.
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